A 96-YEAR-OLD has been getting creative during lockdown to produce paintings of some of Weymouth famous landmarks.

Don Goodey, from Weymouth, has been keeping himself busy throughout the lockdown period with his love of painting.

Mr Goodey, who is approaching his 97th birthday, has been showing his love for the town by painting a variety of buildings in the Weymouth area.

His paintings include cottages in Osmington and Upwey, Brewery Square, St Osmund Church in Osmington and the Mill at Upwey.

Mr Goodey said: “I can always see the bright side of life and I gain great pleasure from everyday events – a beautiful sunset, the nestlings in the bird box by my window, the mallard who visits the garden looking to be fed, a warm jam doughnut, the list is endless. There is always something to keep my spirits buoyant, you just have to look.”

Mr Goodey and his late wife, Freda, originally hailed from London but after spending their honeymoon in Bournemouth and falling in love with the area, they relocated to the south coast. Mr Goodey later moved to Weymouth in 2013.

Madeline Goodey, Don’s daughter, and also a keen painter said, "He has always had a talent for drawing, woodwork and other creative crafts, but with a full time job as a service engineer, and two children, there wasn't much time for painting and drawing.

“He now spends a lot of his time with a paintbrush in his hand.

“He has missed seeing his friends but has had phone calls and letters which keep him in touch in these strange and difficult times.”